We asked our agents at William Ravies Nantucket to help us plan the perfect summer day on the island and here’s what they suggested. Grab your beach towels, sandals and a bike, and spend a day with us on Nantucket:
Morning sunrise on the beach
Head to the eastern shore of the island to catch an unobstructed view of the sunrise.
Low Beach in Sconset
If you're already in Sconset, walk down to Low Beach for an unobstructed ocean sunrise. It’s quiet and feels wonderfully remote.
Great Point
For the adventurous, head out to Great Point, the northeastern tip of the island. While it requires a 4WD vehicle with a beach permit, the solitude, lighthouse views, and seabird activity at dawn make it an unforgettable experience.
Madequecham Beach
On the island's south shore, Madequecham is peaceful and raw, with rolling dunes and a wide expanse of beach. It’s perfect for a quiet sunrise stroll or meditation.
Sesachacha Pond / Quidnet Beach
Park at Quidnet and walk to Sesachacha Pond. This area offers sunrise light over both the pond and the Atlantic, with beautiful natural surroundings and minimal crowds.
Patio Breakfast
Post-sunrise, if you’re in the Sconset area, head to breakfast at Claudette's, or drive into town and hit up one of the many breakfast options there like the Lemon Press or Born & Bread.
🏖️ Beach Time
With more than 82 miles of coastline, Nantucket has a beach for every mood.
Head to Cisco Beach to surf or Steps Beach for its scenic views and white sand. If you’re spending the day with children, Children’s Beach is the perfect place for families with its calm water and nearby playground.
Grab a quick beachy lunch
Head over to Something Natural for a sandwich and fresh-baked cookies from the legendary local spot. Or hit up beachside snack shop the Surf at Surfside Beach.
🚲 Afternoon
If you’re feeling restless and want to explore, biking around the island is a great afternoon activity for all ages. Rent a bike at Young’s Bicycle Shop and explore Bartlett’s Farm for fresh produce and flowers. Or ride the Polpis Bike Path for a quiet, picturesque route through moors and around ponds.
Stop by Cisco Brewers for a drink, a quick bite to eat at the food trucks, and live music.
For an indoor activity, visit the Whaling Museum downtown. The rooftop deck also offers one of the best panoramic views of the harbor.
Evening/Night time events
Head to happy hour for a mudslide at the Gazebo or a glass of wine at famed Galley Beach.
For dinner, head into town to explore Nantucket's wealth of wonderful restaurants. See our dining guide to choose from our agents’ favorites.
Pack a blanket and a bottle of wine for the island’s most spectacular sunset at Madaket Beach.
For dessert, hit up the Juice Bar. While there might be a line, this Nantucket icon is worth the wait. Pro tip: Get the waffle cone.
Cap off your night by stargazing on the beach (Cisco or Surfside are good options) or a walking ghost tour in town to hear island folklore and history with a spooky twist. Or if nightlife is your scene, the Chicken Box is a must for live music and dancing.
